Hong Kong to expand pet-friendly spaces with over 20 new parks in three years

In response to growing demand for pet-inclusive public spaces, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) has announced plans to add more than 20 new pet gardens and inclusive parks for pets across all 18 districts over the next three years.

As of last month, Hong Kong has 55 dedicated pet gardens and 180 inclusive parks for pets, with the Eastern District leading with seven pet gardens, while the Central & Western and Wan Chai districts hosted the most inclusive parks for pets with 14 each.

The LCSD said it is committed to expanding these facilities while balancing public hygiene and safety concerns.

Future expansion plans

The proposed expansion will focus on newly designated areas, though exact locations and sizes remain under discussion.

The department said it will review public feedback and seek support from respective District Councils before finalizing details.

In response to enquiry on whether the LCSD would consider introducing pet-friendly spaces at public beaches and holiday camps. The department ruled out such measures, citing Hygiene risks - pet waste on beaches that would disrupt swimmers and sunbathers.

It also cited operational challenges at holiday camps, where dynamic activities could pose safety risks if pets were allowed.

Review of long-term policies

With pet-friendly parks operational for four years, the LCSD was urged to assess the program’s effectiveness and explore lifting blanket bans on pets in standard parks.

The department noted that any changes would require careful evaluation of public opinion, environmental hygiene, and district-level consensus.

(Marco Lam)